Graduate Languages Interview Questions

If you're a graduate looking to get into a language role and need to get a feel for the kind of questions employers might ask at interview, then make sure you research these graduate language interview questions below. These questions and answers are taken from real graduate interviews, and compiled to give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare your answers.

Example Language Interview Questions:

Do you think knowing about the culture of a region is equally important as having knowledge about the language?

Yes, having knowledge about the culture of a community is as essential as perfection in the language it speaks. It helps in conveying the ideas of the speaker in a more effective manner. The parties involved in communication will be more comfortable if the translator is familiar with their style, culture and background. When interviewing for jobs involving languages you must convey your understanding of being culturally aware.

In which area are you more competent: reading or writing?

You need not be specific in your answer. Just start your answer by saying that you are comfortable with the language as a whole. An interest for learning a new language has made you consistent in both of these skills. Then you can provide facts about your reading and writing speed – talk yourself up by mentioning academic achievements in each. This will help you in supporting your answer.

Have you spent anytime living abroad using your language skills?

Most applicants will have a good example of a long term stay abroad, if not you will have to make the most of any experience that you do have. Key points to bring out from your trip abroad are; show how you have used your language skills independently, try and use an example of when you have used your language skills in a working environment, and a social environment, and in a stressful situation. If you studied abroad highlight the importance of using your language skills in an academic environment. Each of these could be important in a career in languages.